California Whitewater
HEADWATERS IN SEC 28, T18N, R8W TO ONE-THIRD MILE BEYOND SNOW MT. WILDERNESS BOUNDARY AT PRIVATE PROPERTY BOUNDARY NEAR PARADISE CREEK
STREAMFLOW: 50 CFS
• Class III-IV River Run
The Headwaters section of the Whitewater River in California is a popular spot for paddlers with a Class III-IV rating and a stream flow range between 300-600 cfs. This 7.5-mile segment begins in Section 28, T18N, R8W and ends at the private property boundary near Paradise Creek, one-third mile beyond the Snow Mt. Wilderness boundary. The river is characterized by several challenging rapids, such as The Chute, Wagon Wheel, and World Famous Toilet Bowl. Paddlers must exercise caution and have advanced skills to navigate these sections safely.
In terms of regulations, the Headwaters section is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and requires a permit to float. Camping is allowed at designated sites and campfires are permitted only in established fire rings. Additionally, visitors must pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the area's natural beauty.
Get driving directions.
In terms of regulations, the Headwaters section is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and requires a permit to float. Camping is allowed at designated sites and campfires are permitted only in established fire rings. Additionally, visitors must pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the area's natural beauty.
Get driving directions.
| Last Updated | 2023-12-09 |
| River Levels | 93 cfs (6.19 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 47% |
| Reporting Streamgauge | EF RUSSIAN R NR CALPELLA CA |
| Elevation | 837 ft. |
| River | |
| Watershed | Upper Stony |
Nearby Camping
| Location | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stirrup - Letts Lake | 28 | 4,378 ft | |||
| Davis Flat | 29 | 1,641 ft | |||
| Grimy Gulch - Stony Gorge Reservoir - USBR | Numerous | 868 ft | |||
| Cedar Camp | 6 | 4,262 ft | |||
| Dixie Glade Horse Camp | 7 | 3,043 ft | |||
| Spillway - Letts Lake | 9 | 4,496 ft | |||
| Fouts | 11 | 1,611 ft | |||
| Main Letts | 18 | 4,546 ft | |||
| Mill Valley | 15 | 4,086 ft | |||
| Little Stony | 13 | 1,461 ft | |||
| Saddle Camp Loop | 9 | 4,522 ft |
Weather Forecast
Snoflo Premium